Bachelor Of Science, Nursing at CBU - Cape Breton University - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-03-19

Program overview

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program at Cape Breton University (CBU) is designed to prepare students for a rewarding career as registered nurses. This program emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of various healthcare settings. With a focus on compassionate care and ethical practice, students will gain the necessary competencies to thrive in the nursing profession. The program is open to both Canadian and international students, with specific pathways available for advanced standing and LPN to RN transitions.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program offers flexible pathways to accommodate different student needs:

3-Year Direct Entry Program: Ideal for students entering directly from high school.
2-Year Advanced Standing Program: Designed for students who have completed prior nursing education.
2-Year LPN to RN Pathway: Tailored for Licensed Practical Nurses seeking to become Registered Nurses.

The program duration varies based on the chosen pathway:

3 Years for the Direct Entry program.
2 Years for both the Advanced Standing and LPN to RN pathways.

Students will engage in a concept-based curriculum that promotes hands-on learning and real-world application. The program also includes opportunities for co-op placements and international experiences, allowing students to gain valuable insights into global health practices.

Featured Experiences

Extensive nursing practice placements in hospitals, community settings, and long-term care facilities.
A two-week international experience that immerses students in health and nursing practices in different cultures.
Service-learning opportunities for students not participating in the international experience.
Access to a variety of specialty nursing certificates in areas such as oncology, acute care, mental health, and public health.
Engagement in continuous professional development alongside faculty and peers.

Career Options

Psychiatric Nurse: Specializes in mental health, providing care and support to patients with psychiatric disorders.
Critical Care Nurse: Works in intensive care units, managing patients with life-threatening conditions.
Public Health Nurse: Focuses on community health, promoting wellness and disease prevention.
Flight Nurse: Provides emergency care during air transport, often in critical situations.
Forensic Nurse: Combines nursing with legal expertise, caring for victims of crime and collecting evidence.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit CBU - Cape Breton University official website

Last updated on 2026-03-19

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The admission requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program at Cape Breton University (CBU) are designed to ensure that students are well-prepared for the challenges of nursing education. Here are the key requirements:

Minimum GPA: Not specified.
General Requirements for High School Graduates:
- English 12 (academic or advanced)
- Math 12 (academic or advanced)
- 2 Science 12 level academic or advanced courses (biology and chemistry recommended)
- 1 additional grade 12 academic or advanced level course
International Students:
- International students can apply to the Advanced Standing Nursing Pathway.
- Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For international students, particularly those from Vietnam and other Asian countries, it is essential to meet the English language proficiency requirement, which is an IELTS score of 7.0 with no band below 6.5. Students are encouraged to contact LOA Portal's advisors for any clarification and support regarding the application process.

It is important to note that admission to this program is based on applicant qualifications, with preference given to Nova Scotia residents. Additionally, there are designated seats for African Nova Scotian students and L’nu Indigenous students to enhance diversity within the nursing workforce.

Language Requirements

The majority of programs at Cape Breton University are taught in English. Students need strong English communication, listening, comprehension, reading, and writing skills to be successful.

Cape Breton University has strong relationships with several English language partners including Cape Breton Language Centre (CBLC), English School of Canada (ESC), EC English Language School, and ILAC. If your first language is not English, you will need to provide documentation to show that CBU’s English language proficiency requirements have been met. See the requirements below.

English Language Scores

Official Testing Scores

Please arrange to have test results sent to Cape Breton University from one of the following agencies or upload your official results to your CBU Future Student account:

TOEFL iBT (and iBT Home Edition): minimum overall score of 80 with no score below 20.
IELTS Academic (and IELTS Indicator): minimum overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0.
CAEL: minimum score of 60.
MELAB: minimum score of 85.
Pearson PTE (Academic): minimum overall score of 59 with no score below 50.
Duolingo English Test: minimum score of 120 with no score below 105 for undergraduate programs, diplomas, and certificates.

English Language Requirements for Nursing Applicants

Applicants to the Bachelor of Science, Nursing (BScN) program must meet higher English language proficiency standards than those required for other programs.

Minimum English Language Test Scores for BScN Applicants:

IELTS Academic: Overall band score of 7.0, with no individual band below 6.5.
Equivalent scores from other accepted tests will be reviewed individually to ensure they meet this standard.

Important: All international applicants to the BScN program are required to submit an accepted English language proficiency test. No exemptions will be granted based on prior study in English.

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!

Last updated on 2026-03-23

Program overview